Volkswagen updates its Phaeton

The new 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton debuts with a new front design at the Beijing Auto Show next week.

The powertrain lineup includes six-, eight- and twelve-cylinder engines ranging in capacity from 240hp to 450hp. The most fuel efficient model sees a 3.0-litre V-6 turbodiesel under the bonnet and returns a fuel economy of 27.7 mpg.

The Phaeton will reportedly be able to accelerate from 0-100kph in 8.2 seconds with a top speed of 237kph.

Coming as standard across the range is a 4Motion all-wheel drive system, air suspension, bi-xenon headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, 4-zone air-conditioning, 18-way adjustable seats and leather and Alcantara trim.

However, the Volkswagen Phaeton will face some stiff competition in the luxury sedan segment, from the likes of the BMW 7-series, facelifted Mercedes-Benz S-Class, redesigned Audi A8 and Jaguar XJ on the horizon.

See the Volkswagen Pheaton for sale here.